Title :
Computer memory: abacus to DRAM
Author :
Owens, Howard D.
Author_Institution :
Motorola Microcomput. Div., Austin, TX, USA
Abstract :
Basic concepts of the first computer memory, the abacus, and the current DRAM (dynamic random-access memory) are discussed. The abacus was the main memory for the first electronic digital computer, the ABC (Atanasoff-Berry Computer). Built between 1939 and 1942, the ABC was a special-purpose machine designed to solve a system of linear algebraic equations. The similarities and differences between these two computer memories separated by over 30 years are highlighted.<>
Keywords :
digital storage; Atanasoff-Berry Computer; DRAM; abacus; computer memory; dynamic random-access memory; electronic digital computer; linear algebraic equations; special-purpose machine; Capacitors; Cathodes; Delay lines; Electron tubes; Equations; Flip-flops; Integrated circuit technology; Inverters; MOSFET circuits; Random access memory;
Journal_Title :
Potentials, IEEE
